This must be a popular van, I also bought the same van last week for the purpose of converting it to a camper and going on long journeys, I was also scared of doing it. The only difference between you and me is I'm 70, and you inspired me. Thank you. I wish I did it when I was your age. but I'm going for it now. Maybe I'll see you on the road somewhere.
Hey Ken! Thanks for commenting on the video, I'm so glad you got a van too! Let me know once you start working on yours. I see you do some music, I play myself. If we ever meet out on the road we'll have to jam!
Todays 70 is yesterday's 45, you'll have a great time! Can always join a caravan if get lonely, or just to get into the swing of it all. Not everyone gets to follow a dream, enjoy!
I’m 70, retired female teacher. I just bought 2008 Sienna and did first solo camping trip this weekend. I used a camp cot with 4” trifold mattress. Very comfortable sleeping. Lots of storage underneath. $15 3 drawer plastic storage from Walmart. I took mid row seats and put third row in stow n go. Reflectix over windows. Determined I need better fan and lighting and a battery source. Go for it..I’m not planning to live in it.
Nice! I would take those bolts and screw them back into the empty holes. That way you keep track of them and you also guarantee that no dirt or whatever will get into the holes and make it harder to reinstall down the road.
Hey, good luck! I have a Dodge Grand Caravan and love it. I didn't do any build, I still have the seats, and I have 2'x8' runners to soften the floor. I use a cot and containers that fit underneath. My "bathroom" is a three-legged, covered toilet. I can carry a tent, chair, food, and miscellaneous items. There's nothing better than being out on the road for a month or two at a time. Have fun!
Hey Judy, I have a 2012 Town and Country that I rigged out like yours by the sounds of it. It has nearly 180,000 miles on it but has been very well maintained. Converted it over about 5 years ago. Since I am 80 years old I didn't remove any seats, still have enough storage for myself for 2-4 week trips in the East and New England. ( I live in Ohio)Some beautiful camping in the National Forests where I prefer to camp. Keep on trekking!
I have the exact same van. Living in it atm. If I have to sleep in a vehicle I’m glad it’s this one. Definitely take the seats out. You basically will have four nice sized cargo storage areas in the floor.
I just bought the same van and I have the same plan, with a few differences, but the idea of working a couple of months working and then travelling a for a couple is also my goal. The only difference is that you seem like a pretty young guy and I just turned 62 and am now semi retired. It just goes to show you that the lure of adventure and independence will never die out for some of us. My first destination is going to be Mexico and then as the weather changes I'll head north through the mid west and then Canada. Maybe we will cross paths, but even if we do not, May the road rise up to meet ya....
I have a very challenging goal of converting my Toyota Sienna without removing any seats or making other modifications to the interior…I need to be able to quickly and easily make it be a family van again. So I’m watching hours and hours of other conversions picking up tips and tricks, thanks for sharing - I always learn something!
I have a 2009 T&C with 346k miles on it. Looking for a newer model. Won't get much for the one I have ... Maybe I should just camper it out. Been wanting to travel anyway. Wife will not appreciate me tearing down a newer model. So why not the older one. Thanks for the inspiration.
That's a great idea, if you end up building it out, let me know! And I can't tell you how reassuring it is that your Town and country got to 346k. That's awesome!
I bought a 2006 Town and Country with the same idea in mind. I'm still building it out but took out on my first road trip from Illinois out to QUARTZSITE a few weeks ago! I can't wait to get out again. Once you have the fever its hard to get back into my sticks and bricks. The freedom and serenity was amazing when I was on the road. Best of luck to you!
You are just the sweetest cutest thing! No worries I am a 68-year-old woman! Now, can I have that bell for my cat dog? She kills everything! Okay now back to the video 🤣💜
Also, tips for windows: DOLLAR TREE!!! You can get foam core poster boards for a dollar (each) and quite often the window reflective panels. A little hot glue and/or Gorilla tape from Wal-Mart and you're good. Of course Wal-Mart's fabric section has a lot of material to do wraps on the boards if you want to go that route, too.
Save some of the Lego and figurines to glue to your side door top or dash as good luck charms! Maybe too late? Also you can buy 1 panel of wood looking paneling at Home DEPOT for flooring.
Glad i found this channel. I have a 2009 T&C... Today i started making the window templates for the reflectix. I've looked at a million youtube camper minivan to get some ideas, but it's still cold and snowing in SE Wisconsin... Thanks, looking forward to future build.
That's awesome! Best of luck on your build. Honestly, I kind of just eyeballed it when I cut out my reflectance. Hahaha. I just measured the highest part in the longest part of the window and then cut out a square and then worked it down from there. (Definitely give yourself more to work with in the beginning, hahaha!) I'll go ahead and tell you what my plan is for the future just so you know. I'm going to wrap them in just a thin black fabric so it looks like it's a blacked out windows from the outside. Then I'm going to super glue these tiny little magnets to corners of my reflectance reflectant and then take a little bit of tape and tape the other side of the magnet around the corners of the windows so that it just clicks on and off. Let me know how your buildings up working out!
I have a 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan, which is really the poorer cousin to your remote controlled trunk vehicle there. Same interior seat setup, though. I took them all out the same way except for the small seat at the back on the passenger side. I figure I might need to have two people ride with me somewhere and you need legitimate seats with seat belts to do that. It's also my chair in the back of the van if I want one. I give up a little of the well storage space, but there's still lots where the other four seats went. Generally, when I'm not using that seat it sits in the well, and the flat van floor stays the same. I'm enjoying your build so far and hope you continue.
Thanks so much! Yeah, that's definitely the best seat to keep... I may actually consider putting it back in now that you mentioned that. Hahaha. Thanks again for checking the video out!!
LOVE THIS VEHICLE!! We have a 2016 with the electric / remote / extra usb & 110(?) plug-ins etc...and just got it last year - mainly because my big dog is getting older and needs an easier ride LOL! It’s all about her but I found your channel because after a year with this GC, (we’ve had many vehicles including vans) we just recently realized the unique camper potential - and value so we are doing the same - as we speak. I wanted the “40” seat to remain usable and we took a twin wood frame we bought off a neighbor for $20 (can’t buy the wood for that), cut it down to 25”, added 6” foam to sleep on and there’s one bed (on the “60” / driver’s side)! Since we will mainly be hookups camping (until we get a portable extra power source), we also bought an army cot & large tent that attaches to the back of the liftgate. Two rolls of reflectix are in the way too & I plan to spray paint the outward facing black even though we have the dark tint, because you can still see in at night & certain parts of the day (for those brief naps at rest areas 😎 ) There’s a few more things to do but it is coming along and though we left the seats in, we are doing so as a complete “non-permanent” build; mainly for resale value. I’m thinking of documenting it all on my channel too but in the meantime, just watching a LOT of videos & will be following your build journey too 😎 All the best to you on your adventure - stay safe!
Lol......The stuff I pulled out of the ripped seats of a boys academy bus....lmao. Watched one of your last vids about your van. The term k.i.s.s. came to mind..... which is what I want to do with my bus. Gonna enjoy watching the build. 👍 TU.
Me everyday: Watched that video. Watched that video. Uh yep watched that video. Me today: Yay! Finally a new video! Always like to watch the build process to see new ideas for mine when it happens. Look up Wilder In Motion if you haven't come across her. She has really detailed & informative videos especially for someone so young. Good luck!
Just watched this video, as I’ve been suddenly getting this and others in my feed. Gotta say, after this one, I think I’m going to enjoy watching the progress. Thanks for sharing !!
Great share and Video! Just got a 2013 Caravan, looking to do same, part time:) Thanks for sharing! Like Ken, I'm in 70's too, but love the Van, as I had one before.. Cheers! :)
I am as terrified as you. I have been trying to decide whether to remove seats. You helped make my mind up. I’m doing it! Just bought my Pacifica 2 weeks ago… got rain guards too.
Was at a car show in the mid '80s (I worked at a Dodge dealership at the time) and there was a booth advertising a Plymouth Voyager campervan conversion package. (Vogager was the Plymouth version of the Caravan). It had the roof section on a tilt with fabric on the 3 sides, kind of like what you would see on a VW microbus. Can't say we ever had one come into the dealership.
I have a 2004 Dodge Caravan. Trying to figure out how best to do this myself. Unfortunately I don't have the Stow & Go seating I was hoping for, but the benefit is that they just pull out mechanically instead of having to go through all the labor you're dealing with. Hope to see more videos soon! One thing you might consider is additional lighting for your interior during video sessions. Just a thought. Great job, maybe we'll meet up on the road someday!
Hey Zach, don't worry too much about not having the stow and go. I'm actually sitting here staring at a drawing of the floor plan trying to figure out how in the world I'm going to work around them. I think you're better off not having them! 😂 And I totally agree with the lighting thing. I honestly just put this video up for some family and friends. Didn't know a lot of people would be watching. Now I'm kind of embarrassed because I actually do video and audio for a living hahahaha I need to step up my game 😂
You might want to do some double duty build for instance a slide out desk from under your counter towards your bed so you can sit on your bed and pull out the desk
Plan doing same thing but have to wait 2yrs so doing lots research n planning. Have honda odyssey, don't see to many of those but that's what I will have. Good luck, will be watching
I have a 2004 Odyssey on which I've done a no-build build that I can have put back to a van in less than an hour. I have no intention of travelling in it because I hate travelling but it is my Plan B if something goes wrong and for one reason or another I become homeless. It would be very wise if you do lots of research on van life because it's not always the romantic and joyous adventure it is made out to be. Here on TH-cam you don't always get the honest truth about it and rarely hear about the failures because who wants to make a TH-cam video about how van didn't work out for them.
@@stevec3872 thank you, that is very true. I'm a traveller though n never had resources for luxury travel. Everyone also said they pictured me having a life on the road cooking my food on the engine, ha!. I am older now though n breaking down but if I have to crawl I will do the cross country thing without interruptions hopefully within 2yrs. Thanks for taking the time to respond, its a VERY valid point not everyone can do it.
I own one these T & C mini vans. They break all time. They are very easy to fix and if need be they are cheaper for mechanics to work on. Very popular.
Hey Debbie! A cargo van would definitely be much easier to work with and more comfortable. I ended up going with the minivan to try and get a bit more fuel efficiency, but the real reason was because of some of the mountain roads I know I'll be on. I wanted to make sure I had something small enough to maneuver the grades they have out in the Rockies.
How many miles did the van have on it when you bought it? I wish you would of explained what parts had to be loosen to get the seats and center console out. I'm not too mechanical knowledgeable. I subscribed to your channel. Thank you for the video. Blessings in your days.
th-cam.com/video/VKLa9Ly1LYI/w-d-xo.html ^ that's the video I followed to get the seats out. And for my center console it was as easy as just pulling a latch. I think there's some variety in the console designs. When I got the van it had just under 67,000 on it. A 2013 T&C.
I have the same vehicle. Was going to use it for a taxi but now thinking about converting it. Mine has very dark tinted windows except for the front windshield and driver/passenger windows. You can't see anything behind the front seats from the outside. It's a work horse of a van and mine hasn't given me any problems, even with high mileage.
@@IanODonnell The only thing that went wonky on my T&C is the door lock mechanism. I had the part replaced but now the key receiver won't activate the locks. I have to manually open the door with the key from outside which is a drag. But inside on the side panels the button will open & close the locks. Otherwise, I love my van. Oh, PS. Did you know there's a secret compartment? I don't like to reveal it publicly because I hide things in mine. My mom has the same van and never knew about it and many T&C owners aren't aware of it.
@@lorettaenz4828 I know, but it's better not to advertise the compartment so it's not common knowledge. Look at the owner's manual or ask the dealer to show you where it is.
I love chryslers. Absolutely obsessed. All the mistreatment and disrespect Chrysler's are getting is absolutely disgusting. They deserve far better. Wish I could see the license plate, because I write down a whole list of them so I remember which ones I've seen. Maybe i can get a photo editor so i can make it more clear at the beginning. Let me know when you're done with your chrysler because I might want to have it.
Thanks for the heads up, I actually read about some of those issues before I got the vehicle. I brought it to my mechanic before I purchased it to make sure everything was good and sealed up inside the engine.
Im converting my Ford Explorer now. Using cardboard boxes as building material. Want to jump on this train but can only do part time; Job and family. I will put some videos out also but not of build.
Oh wow. That's good to know. Thank you!! I'm going to hold on to it for the time being, in case I want to convert it back. But if I ever make the van into a permanent conversation, I for sure will be selling that now hahahaha.
New Sub here, you're doing great! I just removed our rear bench seat today much easier than I expected, still trying to decide if i want to remove one or both of the mid row seats but wow that's alot of storage gained so I may do one at least :) - Bill
It's a good idea to leave at least one rear seat, if not for passengers then for a place to sit and relax while you are not driving or it is raining. Taking out just 3 seats still yields a lot of storage.
The amount of crap I found in my "Newly Imported - from Japan" "valeted" Nissan Serena ....- obviously dexterous little toddler fingers tucked crackers and lolly packets away, to be discovered when I took my seats out :/
I would be inclined to take them out anyway and use the area for storage. I always buy older vans with seats that can be taken out and thrown away. I pretty much stick to Toyota sienna and Dodge Grand Caravan. I’ve had three Toyota sienna‘s and 4 or5 Dodge grand Caravan’s over the years. Think in terms of systems rather than trying to build a house inside of it
Except for the bed. The bed should be high enough to put things under it but low enough that you don’t hit your head on the ceiling when you’re sitting on it. It’s really important to be able to sit on the bed with your feet on the floor. Each to his own but I prefer a bed that’s about half the width of the van.
Almost universally TH-cam videos of the band build I was van build show the builder’s face in every scene and I guess this is good for human interest in people like it I hate it I want to see the van build not the face so just so you know you’re not required to have your mug in every single shot
What I hate about TH-cam videos is when people refuse to get to the point and 2 minutes in to a 10 minute video they finally get to the subject of the title.
This must be a popular van, I also bought the same van last week for the purpose of converting it to a camper and going on long journeys, I was also scared of doing it. The only difference between you and me is I'm 70, and you inspired me. Thank you. I wish I did it when I was your age. but I'm going for it now. Maybe I'll see you on the road somewhere.
Put more on your build on your channel so I can follow your lead.
Hey Ken! Thanks for commenting on the video, I'm so glad you got a van too! Let me know once you start working on yours.
I see you do some music, I play myself. If we ever meet out on the road we'll have to jam!
Live your dream.
Todays 70 is yesterday's 45, you'll have a great time! Can always join a caravan if get lonely, or just to get into the swing of it all. Not everyone gets to follow a dream, enjoy!
I’m 70, retired female teacher. I just bought 2008 Sienna and did first solo camping trip this weekend. I used a camp cot with 4” trifold mattress. Very comfortable sleeping. Lots of storage underneath. $15 3 drawer plastic storage from Walmart. I took mid row seats and put third row in stow n go. Reflectix over windows. Determined I need better fan and lighting and a battery source. Go for it..I’m not planning to live in it.
I just purchased a 2011 town and country to also camp and travel in! I cant wait, I leave for the PNW next week.
I stated in a Dodge Journey and am now in a Ford transit connect! Tiny homes on wheels rock!!!
Nice! I would take those bolts and screw them back into the empty holes. That way you keep track of them and you also guarantee that no dirt or whatever will get into the holes and make it harder to reinstall down the road.
Hey, good luck! I have a Dodge Grand Caravan and love it. I didn't do any build, I still have the seats, and I have 2'x8' runners to soften the floor. I use a cot and containers that fit underneath. My "bathroom" is a three-legged, covered toilet. I can carry a tent, chair, food, and miscellaneous items. There's nothing better than being out on the road for a month or two at a time. Have fun!
You have all the essentials for sure! Sometimes I'm wondering if I'm making this too complicated, hahahaha. Hope to see you out on the road one day!!
Hey Judy, I have a 2012 Town and Country that I rigged out like yours by the sounds of it. It has nearly 180,000 miles on it but has been very well maintained. Converted it over about 5 years ago. Since I am 80 years old I didn't remove any seats, still have enough storage for myself for 2-4 week trips in the East and New England. ( I live in Ohio)Some beautiful camping in the National Forests where I prefer to camp. Keep on trekking!
I have the exact same van. Living in it atm. If I have to sleep in a vehicle I’m glad it’s this one. Definitely take the seats out. You basically will have four nice sized cargo storage areas in the floor.
I just bought the same van and I have the same plan, with a few differences, but the idea of working a couple of months working and then travelling a for a couple is also my goal.
The only difference is that you seem like a pretty young guy and I just turned 62 and am now semi retired. It just goes to show you that the lure of adventure and independence will never die out for some of us.
My first destination is going to be Mexico and then as the weather changes I'll head north through the mid west and then Canada.
Maybe we will cross paths, but even if we do not, May the road rise up to meet ya....
I have a very challenging goal of converting my Toyota Sienna without removing any seats or making other modifications to the interior…I need to be able to quickly and easily make it be a family van again. So I’m watching hours and hours of other conversions picking up tips and tricks, thanks for sharing - I always learn something!
I have a 2009 T&C with 346k miles on it. Looking for a newer model. Won't get much for the one I have ... Maybe I should just camper it out. Been wanting to travel anyway. Wife will not appreciate me tearing down a newer model. So why not the older one. Thanks for the inspiration.
That's a great idea, if you end up building it out, let me know! And I can't tell you how reassuring it is that your Town and country got to 346k. That's awesome!
I bought a 2006 Town and Country with the same idea in mind. I'm still building it out but took out on my first road trip from Illinois out to QUARTZSITE a few weeks ago! I can't wait to get out again. Once you have the fever its hard to get back into my sticks and bricks. The freedom and serenity was amazing when I was on the road. Best of luck to you!
Thanks so much! That makes me even more excited hahaha 😂
I'm from northern Illinois, I travel the country in an 04 Toyota Sienna, I've been in the Vegas area for the winter
I did not know how to do flooring. These are helpful as most videos do not show steps… for flooring and window reflex. Thanks!
You are just the sweetest cutest thing! No worries I am a 68-year-old woman! Now, can I have that bell for my cat dog? She kills everything! Okay now back to the video 🤣💜
Also, tips for windows:
DOLLAR TREE!!!
You can get foam core poster boards for a dollar (each) and quite often the window reflective panels.
A little hot glue and/or Gorilla tape from Wal-Mart and you're good. Of course Wal-Mart's fabric section has a lot of material to do wraps on the boards if you want to go that route, too.
I do love dollar tree!! hahaha
Save some of the Lego and figurines to glue to your side door top or dash as good luck charms! Maybe too late? Also you can buy 1 panel of wood looking paneling at Home DEPOT for flooring.
Glad i found this channel. I have a 2009 T&C... Today i started making the window templates for the reflectix. I've looked at a million youtube camper minivan to get some ideas, but it's still cold and snowing in SE Wisconsin... Thanks, looking forward to future build.
That's awesome! Best of luck on your build.
Honestly, I kind of just eyeballed it when I cut out my reflectance. Hahaha. I just measured the highest part in the longest part of the window and then cut out a square and then worked it down from there. (Definitely give yourself more to work with in the beginning, hahaha!)
I'll go ahead and tell you what my plan is for the future just so you know. I'm going to wrap them in just a thin black fabric so it looks like it's a blacked out windows from the outside. Then I'm going to super glue these tiny little magnets to corners of my reflectance reflectant and then take a little bit of tape and tape the other side of the magnet around the corners of the windows so that it just clicks on and off.
Let me know how your buildings up working out!
I have a 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan, which is really the poorer cousin to your remote controlled trunk vehicle there. Same interior seat setup, though. I took them all out the same way except for the small seat at the back on the passenger side. I figure I might need to have two people ride with me somewhere and you need legitimate seats with seat belts to do that. It's also my chair in the back of the van if I want one. I give up a little of the well storage space, but there's still lots where the other four seats went. Generally, when I'm not using that seat it sits in the well, and the flat van floor stays the same. I'm enjoying your build so far and hope you continue.
Thanks so much! Yeah, that's definitely the best seat to keep... I may actually consider putting it back in now that you mentioned that. Hahaha. Thanks again for checking the video out!!
LOVE THIS VEHICLE!! We have a 2016 with the electric / remote / extra usb & 110(?) plug-ins etc...and just got it last year - mainly because my big dog is getting older and needs an easier ride LOL! It’s all about her but I found your channel because after a year with this GC, (we’ve had many vehicles including vans) we just recently realized the unique camper potential - and value so we are doing the same - as we speak.
I wanted the “40” seat to remain usable and we took a twin wood frame we bought off a neighbor for $20 (can’t buy the wood for that), cut it down to 25”, added 6” foam to sleep on and there’s one bed (on the “60” / driver’s side)! Since we will mainly be hookups camping (until we get a portable extra power source), we also bought an army cot & large tent that attaches to the back of the liftgate. Two rolls of reflectix are in the way too & I plan to spray paint the outward facing black even though we have the dark tint, because you can still see in at night & certain parts of the day (for those brief naps at rest areas 😎 )
There’s a few more things to do but it is coming along and though we left the seats in, we are doing so as a complete “non-permanent” build; mainly for resale value. I’m thinking of documenting it all on my channel too but in the meantime, just watching a LOT of videos & will be following your build journey too 😎 All the best to you on your adventure - stay safe!
Lol......The stuff I pulled out of the ripped seats of a boys academy bus....lmao. Watched one of your last vids about your van. The term k.i.s.s. came to mind..... which is what I want to do with my bus. Gonna enjoy watching the build. 👍 TU.
Not only are you funny, but truly a cute person. Have fun! Thanks for sharing your new adventure.
Hahaha, thank you so much!
we bought the same van yesterday!! gonna follow you on this build
That's awesome! It's a great van from my limited experience so far!
I'm working on a adjustable bed with storage under.
Me everyday: Watched that video. Watched that video. Uh yep watched that video.
Me today: Yay! Finally a new video!
Always like to watch the build process to see new ideas for mine when it happens. Look up Wilder In Motion if you haven't come across her. She has really detailed & informative videos especially for someone so young. Good luck!
I’m purchasing the same vehicle tomorrow which is a BIG decision and I love the seat idea but I think I want them !
Great video! I look forward to seeing it finished!
Me too hahahaha 😂 And thank you!!
🙋🏽♀️I’m new here and I’m already enjoying watching great video 👍🏽👍🏽
Just watched this video, as I’ve been suddenly getting this and others in my feed. Gotta say, after this one, I think I’m going to enjoy watching the progress. Thanks for sharing !!
Thanks so much for the comment! That's really kind of you to say. One day you sould build out your own!!
Good luck Ian! ) Good idea , I was thinking the same.. Dodge and Chryslers are good for that reason, -lots of space!
Thanks for checking out the video! And yeah, it seems to actually be a good setup for camping. Just takes a little tweaking
Great share and Video! Just got a 2013 Caravan, looking to do same, part time:) Thanks for sharing! Like Ken, I'm in 70's too, but love the Van, as I had one before.. Cheers! :)
And so it begins. Good luck!
I am as terrified as you. I have been trying to decide whether to remove seats. You helped make my mind up. I’m doing it! Just bought my Pacifica 2 weeks ago… got rain guards too.
Was at a car show in the mid '80s (I worked at a Dodge dealership at the time) and there was a booth advertising a Plymouth Voyager campervan conversion package. (Vogager was the Plymouth version of the Caravan). It had the roof section on a tilt with fabric on the 3 sides, kind of like what you would see on a VW microbus. Can't say we ever had one come into the dealership.
I think I've actually seen some of those before. A really unique design for sure. Thanks so much for checking out the video!!
I have a 2004 Dodge Caravan.
Trying to figure out how best to do this myself. Unfortunately I don't have the Stow & Go seating I was hoping for, but the benefit is that they just pull out mechanically instead of having to go through all the labor you're dealing with.
Hope to see more videos soon!
One thing you might consider is additional lighting for your interior during video sessions.
Just a thought.
Great job, maybe we'll meet up on the road someday!
Hey Zach, don't worry too much about not having the stow and go. I'm actually sitting here staring at a drawing of the floor plan trying to figure out how in the world I'm going to work around them. I think you're better off not having them! 😂 And I totally agree with the lighting thing. I honestly just put this video up for some family and friends. Didn't know a lot of people would be watching. Now I'm kind of embarrassed because I actually do video and audio for a living hahahaha I need to step up my game 😂
And I indeed hope we meet on the road! Take care!!!
You might want to do some double duty build for instance a slide out desk from under your counter towards your bed so you can sit on your bed and pull out the desk
This is great. I want to do the same thing. Thanks for the visual instructions. Good luck with your road trip. ✌😄
Thank you! I hope you get a change to build out your own soon!
Did you ever put a swivel on your passenger seat?
Plan doing same thing but have to wait 2yrs so doing lots research n planning. Have honda odyssey, don't see to many of those but that's what I will have. Good luck, will be watching
I have a 2004 Odyssey on which I've done a no-build build that I can have put back to a van in less than an hour. I have no intention of travelling in it because I hate travelling but it is my Plan B if something goes wrong and for one reason or another I become homeless.
It would be very wise if you do lots of research on van life because it's not always the romantic and joyous adventure it is made out to be. Here on TH-cam you don't always get the honest truth about it and rarely hear about the failures because who wants to make a TH-cam video about how van didn't work out for them.
The Odyssey would be great for a van build. They're really reliable too!
@@stevec3872 thank you, that is very true. I'm a traveller though n never had resources for luxury travel. Everyone also said they pictured me having a life on the road cooking my food on the engine, ha!. I am older now though n breaking down but if I have to crawl I will do the cross country thing without interruptions hopefully within 2yrs. Thanks for taking the time to respond, its a VERY valid point not everyone can do it.
I own one these T & C mini vans. They break all time. They are very easy to fix and if need be they are cheaper for mechanics to work on. Very popular.
That's good to know. Thanks!!
I'm starting to look can't decide T&C or Chevy cargo van. Good Luck will keep watching your progress.
Hey Debbie! A cargo van would definitely be much easier to work with and more comfortable. I ended up going with the minivan to try and get a bit more fuel efficiency, but the real reason was because of some of the mountain roads I know I'll be on. I wanted to make sure I had something small enough to maneuver the grades they have out in the Rockies.
The Chevy would be much more reliable. The T&C is rolling dice
👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Keep us in the loop! Would like to see it come together from beginning to end, maybe some roadtrip footage, too! 👍
Thanks so much! And there will be plenty of road trip footage! hahaha
Mine is 2009 one..looks so similar
Awesome!!!👠🚌👠
Looking great man!
Thanks so much! I'm pretty excited about it. Hahaha
Nice rig man.
Ooh I have the same one
Following, good luck!
Thanks so much!!
How many miles did the van have on it when you bought it? I wish you would of explained what parts had to be loosen to get the seats and center console out. I'm not too mechanical knowledgeable. I subscribed to your channel. Thank you for the video. Blessings in your days.
th-cam.com/video/VKLa9Ly1LYI/w-d-xo.html
^ that's the video I followed to get the seats out. And for my center console it was as easy as just pulling a latch. I think there's some variety in the console designs.
When I got the van it had just under 67,000 on it. A 2013 T&C.
Guy with the Cowboy hat is Javo's Garage on TH-cam.. Guy is an expert on Caravans...
I have the same vehicle. Was going to use it for a taxi but now thinking about converting it. Mine has very dark tinted windows except for the front windshield and driver/passenger windows. You can't see anything behind the front seats from the outside. It's a work horse of a van and mine hasn't given me any problems, even with high mileage.
That's great! Sounds like you have a good set up. And it's encouraging to hear it runs well, hahahaha!
@@IanODonnell The only thing that went wonky on my T&C is the door lock mechanism. I had the part replaced but now the key receiver won't activate the locks. I have to manually open the door with the key from outside which is a drag. But inside on the side panels the button will open & close the locks. Otherwise, I love my van. Oh, PS. Did you know there's a secret compartment? I don't like to reveal it publicly because I hide things in mine. My mom has the same van and never knew about it and many T&C owners aren't aware of it.
@@cantfindmykeys So, I have a T&C. Where's the secret compartment? I promise, I won't steal anything of yours!
@@lorettaenz4828 I know, but it's better not to advertise the compartment so it's not common knowledge. Look at the owner's manual or ask the dealer to show you where it is.
I got 2013 town and country,where did you get rain guards
I love chryslers. Absolutely obsessed. All the mistreatment and disrespect Chrysler's are getting is absolutely disgusting. They deserve far better. Wish I could see the license plate, because I write down a whole list of them so I remember which ones I've seen. Maybe i can get a photo editor so i can make it more clear at the beginning. Let me know when you're done with your chrysler because I might want to have it.
I planned on building out my minivan, but it's terminally rusted. Your's looks great, good luck on this journey. Looking forward to more videos.
Sorry to hear that. I hope you get a chance to build one soon!
i have a 2013 dodge minivan as well i recommend having a mechanic look over it
these have transmission problems, and the oil filter adapter housing can crack or leak.
Thanks for the heads up, I actually read about some of those issues before I got the vehicle. I brought it to my mechanic before I purchased it to make sure everything was good and sealed up inside the engine.
ARE YOU GONA TAKE THE BENCH OF there a lots of storage in were thesit were hiding
Im converting my Ford Explorer now. Using cardboard boxes as building material. Want to jump on this train but can only do part time; Job and family. I will put some videos out also but not of build.
Last I read...Canada is a no go right now because of covid...but you have to give written notice and get permission I think
Well maybe it will be better this summer. Thanks for letting me know though. I guess I'll just cap off in Maine hahaha.
As an owner of this same van I can attest to the fact that the seat cubbies are always full of legos.
Hahahaha, they just appear 😂
At least you can't step on them! 🤣
Napoleon should totally travel with you
I know. I already got ride of him 😭 I messed up!!!
What brand of car is this to be able to fold the seat like this?
Mine is a Chrysler Town an Country, but the Dodge grand Caravan does this to.
use computer in passenger seat area?
What is the window covers
Reflecting insulation. You can get it at Home Depot and Lowe’s.
If you don't want the center console sell it because that's seriously like a $1,200.00 option if it's the factory console.
Oh wow. That's good to know. Thank you!! I'm going to hold on to it for the time being, in case I want to convert it back. But if I ever make the van into a permanent conversation, I for sure will be selling that now hahahaha.
i can find that console for $120 lol. also that’s not a “superconsole”
@@MichaelB-cs6ke well I did say, "if thats the factory console". My 2017 doesn't have one and when I looked them up it was $1200.00.
New Sub here, you're doing great! I just removed our rear bench seat today much easier than I expected, still trying to decide if i want to remove one or both of the mid row seats but wow that's alot of storage gained so I may do one at least :) - Bill
Thanks for subscribing! Good luck with your build! I was also surprised at how easy it was to take the seats out!
It's a good idea to leave at least one rear seat, if not for passengers then for a place to sit and relax while you are not driving or it is raining. Taking out just 3 seats still yields a lot of storage.
You are so funny ☺️
Your van's now named Napoleon. That figurine needs to be attached to the hood.
😂😂 that's a great name. Unfortunately, I ended up throwing that little figure out. I really should have kept it and brought it with me on my trips.
I'd be scared to take it out of town if not a Honda or Toyota
i am thinking cargo van save work
Why year model is your van? Thanks
It's a Chrysler Town & Country 2013.
The amount of crap I found in my "Newly Imported - from Japan" "valeted" Nissan Serena ....- obviously dexterous little toddler fingers tucked crackers and lolly packets away, to be discovered when I took my seats out :/
Hey “there were kids living in here’”
😂😂 I just can't draw any other logical conclusion
New Sub you came up in my feed good luck.
Well welcome aboard! Hahahaha. Thanks so much!
@@IanODonnell thanks.
Have kik..I wana see
Dont cross borders. Not a good idea. Id wait til next fall.
If I were to cross, it would be in early August at the soonest. But I don't think I will regardless just due to the time I'll have.
@@IanODonnell Good. Better to be safe. And Canadians are getting grouchy having people from out of the country visiting.
Ya termina el video y no hizo nada
Stowaway seats- big mistake
Yeah, not ideal for a camper van. I'm having to build around them. Haha
I would be inclined to take them out anyway and use the area for storage. I always buy older vans with seats that can be taken out and thrown away. I pretty much stick to Toyota sienna and Dodge Grand Caravan. I’ve had three Toyota sienna‘s and 4 or5 Dodge grand Caravan’s over the years. Think in terms of systems rather than trying to build a house inside of it
Except for the bed. The bed should be high enough to put things under it but low enough that you don’t hit your head on the ceiling when you’re sitting on it. It’s really important to be able to sit on the bed with your feet on the floor. Each to his own but I prefer a bed that’s about half the width of the van.
My bed is not square it is straight on three sides but the side against the wall is contoured to fit the wall. Every inch counts. LOL
I sent you some ideas face book
Um.... Um...
Desastre
Almost universally TH-cam videos of the band build I was van build show the builder’s face in every scene and I guess this is good for human interest in people like it I hate it I want to see the van build not the face so just so you know you’re not required to have your mug in every single shot
What I hate about TH-cam videos is when people refuse to get to the point and 2 minutes in to a 10 minute video they finally get to the subject of the title.